CYSTITIS is a lower urinary tract infection (UTI), characterised by ongoing urinary urgency and irritation on urinating. This should not be confused with an upper urinary tract or kidney infection, for which doctors advice should be sought. Cystitis usually affects women; male suffers should immediately contact their doctor. It has been estimated that 50% of women suffer from cystitis sometime in their life. Chemical irritants such as bubble baths and perfumes can trigger an attack. Women sometimes experience cystitis after sexual intercourse. This is often called "Honeymoon" cystitis and is due to the irritation of the bladder area during intercourse.
The vaginal area should be washed with water only and all perfumed soaps, bubble baths and douches should be avoided. After intercourse, women should ensure that the vaginal area is well washed with warm water.
During an attack of cystitis the urine is acidic. Common treatments such as CYSTOLEVEâ„¢, CYSTOPURINâ„¢ and CYMALONâ„¢ reduce the acidity of the urine. The contents of each sachet should be dissolved in water and taken three times daily over two days. As the agents are high in sodium and potassium, they should be avoided by those with a history of heart or kidney problems. The full course should becompleted.
Cranberry juice is also used to treat cystitis although the exact mechanism of action is not fully understood. Pregnant women, men, children and patients with cystitis lasting more than three days should see their doctor.
